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After finishing first in the district championship, Zach Hougland helped a rival runner who was dehydrated and nearly collapsed. But that help cost Hougland his first place medal, due to a national rule that says a runner is automatically disqualified for giving or receiving help.

Public outrage spurred a lot of attention, and an image of Hougland and his story has gone viral.

“I’m getting a little bit overwhelmed by it,” Hougland told KCCI.

Major news networks like the New York Daily News, ESPN and “Ellen” are sharing his story.

“I’m glad that they do care. It's a story that has a lot of sportsmanship and character and integrity,” said Josh Husted, Hougland’s cross country coach.

Ellen DeGeneres’ producers called Hougland on Monday for an interview while he was in class.